S. C. Pannell Basso Grenache 2017, McLaren Vale

It’s been too long since the last Grenache post on this blog… so here you go. This comes from Australia, from a highly regarded artisanal producer and it does not disappoint.

A low(ish) SO2 Grenache aiming for drinkability and cheerfulness. It’s best days are already passed probably, yet it’s still so nice. It’s not a dirty, off-putting “primitive wine”, neither a sweet New World cliche, but a pure, honest red. Some developed, forest floor and licorice aromas, besides tart cherries. The slightest hint of mint adds a lovely sour edge to it. Dry with lower acidity, which is true to the variety. Unforced and charming, drinks so well.

Rating: very good, 88 points. 
Price: £18.
Stockist: OZ Wines UK (current vintage is 2018).
Tasted: May, 2020.
Value: good.
Drinking window: drink up soon. If buying, go only for newer vintages.
Source: own purchase.